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Saint Mark's, the Golden Basilica: Guided Tour

Experience Saint Mark's, Patriarchal Cathedral Basilica and seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Venice

Private Tour: Venice Film Locations

Discover the locations that immortalized Venice in the history of world cinema with this fascinating guided tour ...

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Venice Art Tours

The only native english-speaking guide in venice • since 1999, about venice art tours, tour details, testimonials.

Venice Art Tours' Eric Bagan has been designated one of the world's leading tour guides in the pages of  Departures magazine.

Throughout history, Venice's cautious foreign policy, favoring peace where possible, earned her the name of Serenissima, the “most serene.” Despite the crowds that these days clog the thoroughfares, that serenity can still be captured when you hire Eric Bagan, who remains the city's only independent, native English-speaking guide. Eric absorbs you in the pleasures of the city while sparing you its hassles.

"We had a spectacular private guide whose itinerary was far in excess of anything we could have devised with the help of the most comprehensive guide books and our previous experience in Venice. We learned secrets, saw sights, heard stories: all unique and amazing adventures new to us. We can't wait to go back and engage Eric Bagan to further expose us to the magic of Venice."

—R.H., Savannah

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• Venice architecture and art tour with an art historian
• Venice Art and Culture tours
• Private tour guide

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Description

Join out a tour with an expert venice architecture and art guide.

This tour is perfect for you if you want to discover more about the Venetian art, if you are an art lover or  have special curiosities about art and architecture!

Immerse yourself in the real Venice! Discover unique secrets and hidden gems of Venice with an art historian. A unique walk, far from the beaten paths and from the most tourist areas, to discover the essence of my Venice!

I have selected for you the best calli and alternative routes that lead to hidden architectural treasures . We will discover the Venice of the Venetians, we will cross historical bridges to enjoy unique views and we will see amazing Venice historical buildings .

In Venice we have incredible museums and palazzi, some private and some public. Contact me to create a special unusual architecture itinerary for you. This Venice Private Art and Architecture Tour is 100% tailored. Here below you can find some suggestions about my favorite spots.

You can write me your interests and I will create the best experience for you starting from you place in Venice.

Venice Architecture Tour, some ideas, every tour is customizable:

• Carpaccio Art tour in Venice : enjoy the Vittore Carpaccio art , the master storyteller of Renaissance art and discover the Architecture of his time: Vittore Carpaccio’s narrative cycle in the Scuola Dalmata + Gallerie dell’Accademia museum + walking tour in Venice.  The Scuola of San Giorgio and Trifone is a must see for art lover but not really a tourist area of Venice. If you want to see the details of great painting you can’t skip this site.
• Gallerie dell’Accademia Art tour : I love to show the place where I atteded one of my university internship and where I worked dor educational activities for kids. We will speak about the history of the “Charity complex” and the masterpieces: the Palladio staircase,  Carrying the Body of St. Mark by Tintoretto; The Feast in the House of Levi by Veronese; Procession in Piazza San Marco by Gentile Bellini; Miracle of the Cross at San Lorenzo bridge by Bellini; St. Ursula cycle by Carpaccio; Presention of the Virgin at the Temple by Titian. Some of the artworks are still in the original position.
• Tintoretto Venice Art tour : Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Chiesa della Madonna dell’Orto, Cannaregio. The Scuola Grande is called the “Sixtine Chapel” of Venice. Its history is incredible, I will explain you how Tintoretto could receive this commission. We will see the site specific paintings including the Crucifixion masterpiece.
• Classic Venice Art tour : Doge’s Palace and Gallerie dell’Accademia. Let’s visit the two most important art sites of the history of Venice. The place where the Doge used to live and where we had the Court and prisons.
• The best Palazzi Art tour : Ca’Rezzonico and the stunning Tiepolo frescos, Ca’ Mocenigo for its perfume and fashion, Ca’Zenobio or Palazzo Nani Mocenigo (it depends on availabilities); or Correr and Doge’s Palace museum tour
• The Venetian Renaissance Art tour : Frari church and Scuola Grande di San Rocco
• Unusual Renaissance Art tour : Palazzo Grimani, a Venetian “unicum”
• Churches in Venice, Art and Architecture tour in Castello and Cannaregio : San Zaccaria, San Giorgio ai Greci; San Francesco della Vigna, Santi Giovanni and Paolo, Madonna dell’Orto, Gesuiti church, Santa MAria dei Miracoli, San Marziale
• The Scuole of Venice Art tour : Scuola Grande di San Rocco and Scuola dei Carmini; or Scuola Dalmata and Castello (Scuola Grande di San Marco facade)
• Contemporary Art tour in Venice : discover the incredible contemporary art locations: La Biennale (Art or Architecture according to the years), Punta della Dogana or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Dorsoduro.

I can customize this Venice private art and architecture tour according to your interests, so price can vary according to the itinerary and entrance tickets (not included)

Contact me for creating a special tour for you.

Check my Linkedin profile.

Venice Art and Architecture Tour with Lucia. This is me in front of the original Doge’s Palace Entrance, called Porta della Carta.

Please send me an email to [email protected] or a whatsapp message to 00393492258189 for more info and availabilities!

Highlights:.

Guided tour lead by an art historian

Discover art and architecture of Venice

See masterworks by Venetian Artists

Meeting point:

Duration: tailored experience

Cost:   80 euro per hour + entrance fee

• Tourist guide

I would highly recommend Lucia for this art tour. Her passion and knowledge of the city made the tour unforgettable. Book her if you are in the city!

Wow! We had an amazing time with Lucia! Book her!

We spent a wonderful 3 hours with Lucia learning so much about life in Venice from a real Venetian. We started out as strangers and ended up as friends. She was friendly, knowledgeable art expert and a great communicator.

Lucia was a perfect guide trough venice, did show us hidden places, palazzi, churches, architecture and knew everything about history. What a pleasure to explore the city with such a guide Great tour in venice with Lucia

Lucia is the best guide!! So happy Lucia was our guide. So knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. Even took us for Spritz after. She’s a gem!!

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Tours in Venice

Discover the captivating charms of the Floating City

Best-Selling Venice Tours

Venice at Twilight Tour: The Secrets of the Serenissima

max. group size: 10

adults 99 €

students 89 €

Saint Mark’s Basilica Night Tour: Exclusive Visit

(3 Reviews)

adults 129 €

students 119 €

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Essential Venice Tour: Highlights of the Floating City

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• Private Tours

starts from 785 €

Venice Art Tour: The Colours of the Floating City

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starts from 695 €

Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands Tour

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starts from 995 €

Essential Verona Tour including the Arena

starts from 395 €

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Best of Padua Tour with the Scrovegni Chapel

starts from 595 €

Saint Mark’s Basilica at Night: Private Visit

starts from 425 €

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The Best Venice Tours

Welcome to the Floating City! The captivating charms of Venice have to be seen to be believed, a magical world where the streets are paved with water and enchantment lies around every corner. Our specially crafted Venice tours have been designed to enable you to get the most of your time in this fascinating maze of crisscrossing canals and narrow alleys. Witness iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Cathedral and the Doge’s Palace, then go off the beaten path with expert local guides to experience a side of Venice few visitors get to see. Explore spectacular Renaissance palaces and churches picturesquely perched on the edge of canals, and visit atmospheric cafes and workshops that conserve Venice’s oldest traditions. The magnificently vibrant world of Venetian art meanwhile will leave you breathless. This is Italy at its jaw-dropping best: experience it with us.

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The Top 8 Museums and Galleries in Venice

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 18, 2022

In Venice and looking for a few great museums to visit? Not to worry! Our local Venetian guides have created this list of the top museums and galleries in Venice. While you probably won’t be able to visit them all on your first trip, you’ll at least be able to compare them all in one place. Here are the top museums and galleries in Venice for you to choose from.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Venice? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our comprehensive  guide to Venice  for more planning resources, our  top Venice tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Venice in a day .

Top 8 Museums in Venice

There are so many ways to describe Venice: interesting, peculiar, stunning, beautiful, cloudy, flooded, and the list goes on. Venice is over 1,200 years old as a settlement and its vast history has built it into what you see today. This fishing and merchant city has experienced centuries of evolution and yet it appears very classical and unchanged. This is the reason why Venice is Venice.

Its long history and evolution have been collected in Venice’s many galleries. Many people say Venice is only good for a day or two, but it really depends on how you look at it. I believe you could spend a week in Venice exploring its many neighborhoods and neighboring islands and still know very little about it.

Venice is full of incredible monuments, interesting areas, and, most importantly, museums. Much of the reason why people tend to move on so quickly is that there are very few open spaces in Venice and that gives travelers the impression that there isn’t much to see. My recommendation is to schedule a museum per day while in town. In this list, we’ve selected the top museums in Venice, so you can find all the best ones easily!

8. Ca’ Pesaro International

It’s hard to know if Ca’ Pesaro as a building is more valuable than the artwork it houses. The external structure and facade are gorgeous and are a must-see when traveling to Venice. Inside, you’ll find many famous works of art including the following:

• Giuditta II by Gustav Klimt (Galley Masterpiece)
• Thinker by Auguste Rodin (Copy)
• I Borghesi di Calais by Auguste Rodin
• Allunga il passo amico mio by Gastone Novelli
• Vir Temporis Acti by Adolfo Wildt

Address: Santa Croce 2076 | Admission Cost: €14

7. Gallerie dell’Accademia

Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice is considered the most important collection of Renaissance-era artwork in Venice. The Doge’s Palace is the most visited museum but it is less of an art museum than Accademia.

The Accademia is for passionate art lovers that have a large interest in the Renaissance. There are many famous artists housed in this gallery and possibly one of the most famous drawings known to man: Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man (Study of the Proportions of the Human Body). You’ll also find works by the following notable artists:

• Paolo Veronese
• Jacopo Tintoretto
• Paolo Veneziano
• Tiziano Vecellio
• Giovanni Bellini
• Leonardo Da Vinci

Address: Campo della Carita, 1050 | Admission Cost: €12

Popular Venice Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

The ultimate tour of Venice. You’ll get skip-the-line access to the most important buildings in Venice, plus a gondola ride, and private transportation to the islands of Murano and Burano. It’s a full day of touring that will make for the best memories in Venice ever.

Top-Rated Tour

Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride

Only have a day in Venice and want to explore the best places? You’ll love this tour that includes skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace so you don’t waste time! Not to mention, you’ll wander through the Cannaregio district and learn about Rialto Bridge before floating through the canals on your own gondola.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Venice tours to take and why .

6. Pinault Collection: Punta Della Dogana

François Pinault is a French billionaire and an example for any ambitious entrepreneur. He grew up in a rural setting and started a timber trading business from a job cutting down trees for his father. Now, he’s one of the leading art collectors in the world.

The Pinault Collection has not one but two museums in Venice. They also restored a famous theatre named Teatrino, which had been closed since the early 80s. In this article, we recommend visiting the Pinault Collection in Punta della Dogana for one very important reason: the location is really cool!

If you speak Italian, you know punta della dogana translates roughly to “customs checkpoint.” You may see the word dogana in an airport when you exit baggage claim. The structure is built, interestingly enough, on the very tip of the Dorsoduro neighborhood , which helps form the opening of the Grand Canal. It’s an epic location for a museum that offers amazing views.

If you’re not a fan of modern art, I still recommend you visit this space as it may change your opinion. The entire structure is a work of art restored by Tadao Ando. If you’re not sure who that is, you’ll want to know after you visit.

Address: Dorsoduro, 2 | Admission Cost: €15

5. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Guggenheims made their money in the early 20th century in the mining industry. They didn’t just become wealthy—they became some of the most wealthy people ever to live.

After a few generations, their family lost interest in business and began to focus on philanthropy with a considerable focus on the arts. There are currently three Guggenheim collections globally with a fourth very stunning museum being constructed in Abu Dhabi.

The Venetian Guggenheim Collection was established in 1951 after Peggy Guggenheim purchased the Venier Palace two years prior. The palace, which is awkwardly short for Venice, houses a masterful collection of 20th-century artwork. Artists include Dalí, Picasso, Pollock, René Margritte, Vasily Kandisky, and more. You won’t find many Venetian things inside but you will find some of the world’s greatest early 20th-century artwork.

Address: Dorsoduro, 701-704 | Admission Cost: €16

4. Museo Storico Navale di Venezia

It would be difficult to argue that anyone knows boats as well as the Venetians. There are many canal cities across the world such as Amsterdam, St. Petersburg in Russia, and Pittsburg in the USA, but Venice is the only city that does not even offer the option of roads for vehicles. This makes it truly unique and fully reliant on water-borne vessels.

If you’re a boat person, the Historical Museum of the Venetian Navy should be on your list. The museum is housed in an 11th-century palace in Campo San Basio and has 42 exhibitions on five levels. What’s inside? Boats, lots of boats!

You’ll see 16th-century warships, gondolas like never before, and many other ships of historical importance. It’s really cool and admittedly a break from Italy’s high-art concentration.

Address: Riva S. Biasio, 2148 | Admission Cost: €10

3. Murano Glass Museum

I don’t know if I’ve ever had a conversation about Venice without someone bringing up Murano and glass blowing. That’s because glass blowing has been and continues to be a defining part of Venice’s identity. Glass blowers were forced to move to Murano over concerns that their furnaces burned too hot in the main city of Venice. It sounds like a “demotion” of sorts, but these people were treated like royalty.

They were among the only people in Venice allowed to carry a sword and became very wealthy. Unfortunately, they were forbidden from leaving Venice as the commercial city wanted to protect their trade secrets. Today, glass blowing is everywhere. While its origins are not in Venice, it reached never before seen levels in the city. You can witness the evolution of glass at the Murano Glass Museum.

History of the Museum

This grand Gothic palace was passed along and sold to many owners throughout history before being sold to Murano in 1840. It was first a town hall before becoming a museum in 1861. Murano only became part of Venice in 1923 and with it came this museum. Today, you can visit during a trip to Murano and see beautiful architecture, frescoes, and most importantly, lots of blown glass.

According to the museum website, the glass factory is laid out in chronological order. It starts with Roman glass created between the first and third century A.D., which leads into the Murano section. It is the largest collection of Murano glass in the world with works dating from the 15th to the 20th century including many world-famous masterpieces. This museum is a real treat.

Address: Fondamenta Marco Giustinian, 8 | Admission Cost: €10

2. Arsenale della Biennale di Venezia

Arsenale della Biennale di Venezia is a modern art museum featuring the top artists in the world. They have an annual festival that lasts six months in Venice and draws millions of art lovers to the city each year. It is arguably the most important art display on Earth.

Each year there’s a display of new art and, most importantly, new themes. Past themes have included music, dance, theatre, and architecture, among others. You can visit the official website of the Biennale for more info. The display takes place inside the Arsenale della Biennale di Venezia as well as outdoors in the Giardini della Biennale.

It’s a tremendous production in which tens of thousands of people dedicate countless hours of their time to prepare. If you’re in Venice during the Biennale, you absolutely must go and witness it.

Address: Campo de la Tana 2169/f

Unforgettable Venice Tours

Best Selling Tour

St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Get to know the best of Venice’s main attractions at St. Mark’s Square in just a few hours. You’ll have skip-the-line access at St. Mark’s Basilica. Then, head underground to the dungeons at the Doge’s Palace and cross the Bridge of Sighs.

Authentic Experience

Venice Locals Evening Food Tour in Cannaregio

People who say Venice is too touristy have not done enough research. Cannaregio is an amazing break from the crowds, and our food tour is the most authentic way to experience it. Taste cicchetti and other Venetian specialties including wine. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a love for Venetian food!

1. Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace was first built in Venice in the ninth century for the Duke of Venice, but little to nothing remains of that structure today. The majority of what you see today is still very old, built up between the 13th and 15th centuries as Venice rose up in wealth.

Venice became wealthy largely due to its trade routes with India and China. Venetians brought back goods like spices and silk, which became luxury goods throughout Europe and were mainly distributed through Venice.

Here are the must-see attractions in Doge’s Palace. For more in-depth descriptions, read our article on the top things to see in Doge’s Palace or take one of our Doge’s Palace private or small group tours when visiting Venice.

• Giants Staircase
• Great Council Chamber
• Bridge of Sighs
• Chamber of Torment
• Doge’s Apartment
• Museo Dell’Opera
• Golden Staircase

Address: Piazza S. Marco, 1 | Admission Cost: €30 for adults (€25 if you book online 30 days prior to your visit), €14 for ages 6-25 with student care, and +65

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Doge’s Palace Guide for more resources.

Where To Stay in Venice

Despite the size of this little island, there are endless hotel options to choose from. We’ve picked the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in whether you prefer Italian luxury or quiet serenity—or both!

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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Art and Museum Tours

Jan 6, 2023

Your Own Italy Private Tours

If you’re going to be in Rome, Florence, or Venice and find yourself with some free time, take a Your Own Italy walking tour and make the most of your stay! Our tours cover a wide range of interests, last 3-4 hours, including skip-the-line tickets and are led by English-speaking private guides, experts in their fields and regions. And should you not be tempted by anything on the list below, tell us what you would like to see! We’ll develop a custom tour to fit your exact specifications in no time at all.

The Ca’ Rezzonico Museum, Accademia Gallery, and Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Your guide will meet you at your accommodations. The collections in these museums are among Venice's greatest, ranging from Byzantine and Gothic paintings through Renaissance masters to contemporary art. The opulent, marble-faced Baroque palazzo of the Ca’ Rezzonico Museum, on the Grand Canal, houses art works and objects of 18th century Venice, including paintings by Pietro Longhi, Canaletto, and Francesco Guardi; a collection of Murano glass; and furnishings from an antique Venetian pharmacy...

The Unique Sites of Venice

Your guide will meet you between the square columns in Piazza San Marco to begin your tour at St. Mark’s Basilica. Begun about 1,000 years ago, the basilica has a strong Byzantine flavor due to Venice’s trade with the east. From there you will visit the Doge’s Palace, the residence and office of the head of state (a position neither hereditary nor elective), which today houses artistic, architectural, and historical treasures from Venice’s glorious past, and, finally, you will cross the Bridge...

The Punta della Dogana Museum, Grassi Palace and Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Guide will meet you at your accommodations. The city of Venice houses world-class art from the medieval period through the late 18th century. However, hidden within its labyrinth of alleys and canals there is also a rich contemporary art scene. With the first Biennale of 1895 the city opened itself to new trends of the Secession and later European avant-garde movements, attracting artists, collectors, and gallery owners form around the world. The permanent collections and temporary exhibitions...

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THE 10 BEST Venice Art Museums

Art museums in venice.

• Art Galleries
• Specialty Museums
• Art Museums
• History Museums
• Science Museums
• Children's Museums
• Natural History Museums
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Dorsoduro / Accademia
• Santa Croce
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

2. Ca' Rezzonico

3. Gallerie dell'Accademia

4. Museo Correr

5. Ca' Pesaro Galleria Internazionale d'Arte Moderna

6. Ca' d'Oro

7. Museo di Palazzo Fortuny

8. Fondazione Querini Stampalia

9. Palazzo Grassi

10. Palazzo Mocenigo

11. Le Stanze Del Vetro

12. Galleria di Palazzo Cini

13. Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro

14. Scuola Grande di Santa Maria della Misericordia

15. Museum of Icons

16. Deposito del Museo Diocesano d'Arte Sacra Sant'Apollonia

17. Fondation Valmont - Palazzo Bonvicini

18. Fondazione Emilio e Annabianca Vedova

19. Collezione Storica e degli Archivi Rubelli

20. Le Stanze della Fotografia

21. Collezioni della Fondazione di Venezia

22. Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni

23. Collezione Cà del Duca Mocenigo Le Gallais

24. fondazione giovanni santin onlus, 25. palazzo pisani-revedin, 26. padiglione del giappone, 27. padiglione della russia.

28. Doppiofondo

What travelers are saying

• Peggy Guggenheim Collection
• Ca' Rezzonico
• Gallerie dell'Accademia
• Museo Correr
• Ca' Pesaro Galleria Internazionale d'Arte Moderna
• Palazzo Mocenigo
• Museo di Palazzo Fortuny
• Fondazione Querini Stampalia

One Day in Venice, Italy for Art Lovers – The Perfect Itinerary with Maps and Practical Tips

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Italian Art and Culture , Veneto , Venice

Here is a one day in Venice itinerary specifically tailored for art lovers.

It covers eight major art galleries, museums, and churches in venice and it includes two maps and lots of practical tips to make your art exploration of the city of water as easy and exciting as possible..

Venice is a dream place to visit for anyone who loves art. From Byzantine-inspired gold mosaics and monumental Renaissance paintings to famous works of modern art, throughout its millennial history, Venice in Italy has accumulated masterpieces in many different forms and shapes.

The city of water has also inspired and nurtured some of the most famous artists in the world: from the Venice-born Bellini brothers and Tintoretto to the working in Venice for either a period of or their whole life Andrea Mantegna , Cima da Conegliano, Giorgione, Titian , and Veronese. And this is just the Renaissance. When you add the other artistic movements from the Middle Ages to our days, then the list of artists connected to Venice becomes truly impressive.

Travelling to Venice in Italy specifically to see its art is a great idea. Dotted with art galleries, churches, and museums, the city of water offers enough masterpieces to make anyone with a budding or an established interest in art immerse themselves in it. Even better, such is the accumulation of art in Venice and there are so many different styles of it, that before you know it your interest grows and expands. Suddenly you develop an appreciation for a type of art or an artistic period you may not have known much about before.

This happened to me! While Venice initially attracted me for its Renaissance output, the more I visited its art galleries, museums, and churches the more interested I became in the Venetian Gothic and then the Venetian Baroque art. I discovered names such as Paolo Veneziano, Pietro Longhi, Tiepolo (father and son). And when I felt overwhelmed by all the religious scenes and all the large canvases exalting the Republic of Venice, I could always escape to places like Ca’ Pesaro and refresh my eyes with a dose of modern art.

So, in this blog post today, I want to share with you a one day in Venice itinerary specifically tailored for art lovers. You don’t have to be a consummate art connoisseur to take advantage of it. I will talk you through the different art sights it covers and will tell you why they are a must-see during your day trip to Venice. From enormous canvases and hidden masterpieces to the final resting places of famous artists, there are many extraordinary spots along the way. All that is needed is curiosity and a good pair of very, very comfortable shoes.

This one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers covers in eight steps the major art galleries, churches, and museums of Venice. Each step outlines the main works of art you can see at each sight. Information about purchasing tickets and links to the respective official websites are provided, too. In addition, for most steps, I have also included a shortlist with other notable art places to see nearby.

This way, you can tweak and adjust this itinerary as you see fit. It’s completely up to you which sights you want to see on it and how much time you want to spend in the specific art galleries, churches, and museums it covers. If you don’t want to rush around, you can even split the itinerary over two or even three days!

At the end of this blog post, I have also included a list with many practical tips to help you streamline your art exploration of Venice. The list is followed by two maps. The first covers the eight major art sights on this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers. The second map includes both the eight major art sights and the nearby art places from the additional shortlists.

Finally, make sure that you have a look at these three blog posts:

• 20 Venice Landmarks You Simply Have to See – for a detailed overview of the main sights to see in Venice. I mention several of these landmarks all throughout this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers below. It pays to read about them in advance, so as to follow the itinerary with ease and confidence.
• 101 Hidden Gems in Venice  – for 101 things to do and see in the city of water off the beaten track. This blog post has specific Architecture and Art sections for even more ideas about hidden art gems to discover in Venice.
• 45 Essential Tips for Venice  – for handy tips on how to navigate the city of water.

Now, let’s start!

One Day in Venice, Italy for Art Lovers – The Perfect Itinerary with Maps and Practical Tips

Start and end destination.

This one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers starts from and ends at Venezia Santa Lucia train station . This is the train station of the historic city of Venice. It is an end of the line station and among the 15 largest and busiest railway hubs in Italy. On average, it serves 450 high-speed and regional trains a day and deals with 30 million passengers a year.

You can easily travel to Venice for a day from a number of large and small cities in Italy. Here are specific blog posts giving you detailed information on how to take a day trip to Venice from Milan , Verona , Bologna , and Florence .

Aim to arrive as early as possible in order to be able to see more of the art galleries, churches, and museums included in this one-day itinerary for Venice in Italy. The first sight on it – the Scuola Grande di San Rocco – currently opens at 9.30 am. You may also want to grab some breakfast or get your bearings, so factor in as much time as you need.

Please, bear in mind that this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers is almost entirely on foot. There are only two points along the way when boarding a boat is an option. They are clearly marked below. Make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes. In summer, apply suncream and have a refillable water bottle on you. In winter wrap up well as Venice can get rather chilly. Most of the day will be spent inside art galleries, churches, and museums. Still, there is a fair amount of walking both inside the different landmarks and outside, so be prepared mentally and physically.

The walking distances between the different sights vary from around one minute to around 20 minutes. Consider that you will most likely get lost once or twice, especially if this is your first visit to Venice. This is absolutely normal. The city is very labyrinthine. Don’t panic! Find your bearings by checking your GPS app, by looking up to spot one of the many signs in yellow and black pointing towards Venice’s most visited places or by having a coffee and/or a bite to eat in a local eaterie and politely asking for directions.

1. Scuola Grande di San Rocco in the Sestiere of San Polo in Venice, Italy

Start your one-day exploration of Venice for art lovers with a visit to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco . An easy walk away from the Venezia Santa Lucia train station, this is one of the most lavishly decorated and most famous buildings in the city of water. It was built in the 16th century by the Confraternity of St. Roch. This was one of the charitable and devotional communities (locally called  scuole ) that for centuries had organised the laymen of Venice. 

The grandiosity of the facade of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is only rivalled by Tintoretto’s monumental cycle of paintings inside the building. The late 17th-century allegorical wooden sculptures by Francesco Pianta in the Upper Hall ( Sala Superiore ) are another of the highlights here.

In addition, the Treasure of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco holds many priceless artefacts. Among them are elaborate reliquaries keeping the fingers of St. Roch and St. Andrew. There is also an original painting by the famous artist of the Venetian School – Giorgione. It depicts Christ Carrying the Cross. Curiously enough, the painting is topped by a semi-circular painting by Titian (and assistants). As Titian was Giorgione’s student, it is interesting to compare the pictorial style and the strengths of both in such close proximity.

Tickets and Tours: You can buy your ticket on the day of your visit from the ticket office at the entrance of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice. Check the official website for up-to-date prices and opening times.

Official Website: Scuola Grande di San Rocco

More Art Nearby: The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is not only rich in art but it’s also within close proximity to several other important in terms of the history of art sights in Venice, Italy. Here is a shortlist for your interest:

• Church of San Rocco – this church with a splendid Baroque facade stands right next to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. The monumental high altar inside hosts the relics of San Rocco (known as St. Roch in English). Large canvases by Tintoretto and fragments of a fresco cycle by Pordenone decorate the interiors.
• Scuola Grande di San Giovanni Evangelista – a monumental complex of a 13th-century Venetian confraternity. Here you can see Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque masterpieces in an architecturally stunning setting.
• Ca’ Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art – a hidden gem in Venice with a stunning collection of works of art from the 19th and the 20th centuries. The spacious rooms of this elegant Venetian palazzo on the Grand Canal are filled with masterpieces by Kandinsky, Chagall, Miro’, and a long list of Venetian and Italian artists. Exploring Ca’ Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art can be a great alternative to a visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (see point 5 bellow). The top floor of Ca’ Pesaro houses the Oriental Art Museum with a wonderful collection of artefacts from Japan, China, and Indonesia.
• Church of San Pantalon – another hidden gem in terms of art in Venice. The church’s unassuming facade doesn’t prepare you for the masterpieces inside. The most impressive of them all is the enormous painting covering the church’s whole ceiling. Depicting The Martyrdom and Apotheosis of St. Pantalon , it was painted by Gian Antonio Fumiani over a period of 20 years. It is considered to be the world’s largest painting on canvas. To get a proper look at it, put a coin in the donation box near the church’s door. This will automatically illuminate the ceiling. Also in this church you can admire the wonderful Madonna of the Poppy by the Byzantine- and Gothic-inspired painter Paolo Veneziano. A side chapel has frescoes by Pietro Longhi – a lovely thing to see, especially if you decide to skip Ca’ Rezzonico (point 3 in this itinerary) in favour of other art sights in Venice, Italy.
• Scuola Grande dei Carmini – the seat of another one of Venice’s charitable and devotional confraternities. It is richly decorated with stuccoes, frescoes, and wooden wall coverings. Particularly famous are the paintings by the renowned Rococo artist Giambattista Tiepolo on the ceiling of the Capitular Hall.
• Church of Santa Maria dei Carmini – a beautiful church next door to the Scuola Grande dei Carmini. It stands out with masterpieces by Cima da Conegliano, Lorenzo Lotto, and Tintoretto among others.

2. Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in the Sestiere of San Polo in Venice, Italy

Commonly known as the  Basilica dei Frari  (or simply  Frari ), this is an imposing church built of red bricks in the heart of the Venetian  sestiere  of San Polo. Its facade is strikingly bare. Inside the basilica, however, you will find an impressive collection of art and the grandiose tombs of famous Venetian artists.

A special mention deserve two imposing paintings by Titian you can admire here: the sublime ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ on the high altar and the skillfully dynamic in terms of use of space and movement ‘Pesaro Madonna’.

A personal favourite of mine that you can see in the Basilica dei Frari is Giovanni Bellini’s ‘Madonna and Child with Ss. Nicholas of Bari, Peter, Mark, and Benedict’ (also known as the ‘Frari Triptych’ or ‘Pesaro Triptych’). This is one of the pinnacles of the Early Venetian Renaissance. Stand in front of the triptych to admire fully the three-dimensional effect that the painting produces.

The basilica’s wooden choir stalls are astonishing in their detail. They are adorned with complex scenes in intarsia – a technique used to create images with different species of wood in various shades. The monumental tombs of the famous artist  Titian , the neoclassical sculptor  Antonio Canova  (only his heart is buried here), and several Venetian doges and noblemen are astounding in their size and ornamentation.

Tickets and Tours: There is a small admission fee (currently set at three euros). You can buy your ticket on the day of your visit from the ticket office at the entrance of the Basilica dei Frari in Venice. Check the official website for up-to-date opening times.

Official Website: Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

More Art Nearby: For ideas on what else to see in terms of art and art history nearby, have a look at the ‘More Art Nearby’ subheading under point 1 in this blog post.

3. Ca’ Rezzonico in the Sestiere of Dorsoduro in Venice, Italy

Ca’ Rezzonico is a must-see in the city of water if you have a specific interest in the art and culture of 18th-century Venice. This lavish palazzo on the Grand Canal is entirely dedicated to the last century of existence of the Republic of Venice. It hosts an extraordinary collection of paintings, art objects, Murano glass chandeliers, and even a whole historic pharmacy shop.

A special mention here deserve the paintings by Pietro Longhi showing scenes of Venetian life in a realistic, almost photographic style. Also in Ca’ Rezzonico, you can see the famous series of Carnival frescoes by Giandomenico Tiepolo. They depict Punchinello (known as  Pulcinella  in Italian) – one of the most popular characters of Commedia dell’Arte. In the past, these frescoes adorned the villa where the painter’s family lived in the small village of Zianigo in the Venetian mainland. They were transferred to Ca’ Rezzonico in 1936 after the city of Venice purchased them to prevent them from being sold abroad.

All in all, Ca’ Rezzonico makes for a lovely visit, especially as it also has a nice green garden where you can rest for a few minutes. At the same time, if you don’t have a specific interest in 18th-century Venice and/or want to focus on a different art period or a different style of art altogether, then you can skip it and potentially visit it during a return trip to Venice. 

Tickets and Tours: Click to buy tickets for Ca’ Rezzonico in Venice in advance.

Official Website: Ca’ Rezzonico

More Art Nearby: If you decide to skip Ca’ Rezzonico, then you can put a few minutes aside to see the nearby Church of San Sebastiano . It is not in vain that art lovers all around the world traditionally call it the Veronese church. Not only the Church of San Sebastiano has the most important series of paintings by the famous Renaissance artist Paolo Caliari (better known as Veronese), he is also laid to rest in it. This church is looked after by Chorus – an association working for the preservation of several historic churches in Venice. Entrance is paid for and you can purchase a Chorus pass in advance which will come in handy if you are planning to see the other Chorus churches mentioned in this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers.

4. Gallerie dell’Accademia in the Sestiere of Dorsoduro in Venice, Italy

The  Gallerie dell’Accademia  is an impressive art gallery hosting the world’s largest collection of Venetian art dating from the 14th to the 18th centuries. From Byzantine-inspired altarpieces to Baroque masterpieces, its 37 halls trace the evolution of art in Venice.

The Gallerie dell’Accademia are, perhaps, most widely known as the place where the world’s most famous drawing –  Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man  – is kept. To the disappointment of many, the Vitruvian Man is not on permanent display. Due to its fragile nature, the Gallerie show it to the general public only on special occasions.

The Vitruvian Man aside, the Gallerie dell’Accademia are still very much worth a visit. Here you can admire famous paintings by the likes of Giovanni Bellini, Andrea Mantegna , Vittore Carpaccio, Giorgione, Titian , Tintoretto, and Veronese. Walking through the spacious halls, you feel like you are in a book on the history of art. Paintings that we usually see on the pages of books, here stand in front of you in all their splendour. If you have a special interest in the Venetian School, a visit here will be a highlight of your day in Venice.

Bear in mind that if you are starting to get pressed for time or if modern art is not really your cup of tea, you may consider skipping the next stop on this itinerary – Peggy Guggenheim Collection (point 5) – altogether. In this case, once you have completed your visit to the Gallerie dell’Accademia, cross the Grand Canal on the Accademia Bridge (read more about it under point 9 here ). Then continue through the sestiere of San Marco to the Doge’s Palace (point 6 below) and St. Mark’s Basilica (point 7 below).

Tickets and Tours: You can buy your ticket from  the official website  in advance or from the ticket office at the Gallerie dell’Accademia on the day of your visit. Keep in mind that ticket prices may vary depending on temporary exhibitions and events.

Official Website: Gallerie dell’Accademia

More Art Nearby: There are several other art sights near the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice. You will be spoiled for choice. Especially, if you decide to either split over two or three days this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers or adjust it to your specific art tastes and interests. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Palazzo Cini – a refined house museum with a beautiful collection of art and historic furniture. Among other things, here you can admire a selection of 13th- to 16th-century Tuscan paintings, sculptures, and art objects. Among them is a small painting by Botticelli.
• Church of Santa Maria del Rosario (I Gesuati ) – an imposing 18th-century Dominican church with celebrated frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo. This church is looked after by Chorus – an association working for the preservation of several historic churches in Venice. Entrance is paid for and you can purchase a Chorus pass in advance which will come in handy if you are planning to see the other Chorus churches mentioned in this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers.
• Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute – a famous 17th-century church which is considered to be one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Europe. It houses many works of art with several canvases by Titian among them. The church itself features in dozens of paintings by celebrated artists from all around the world.
• Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art – you will find it inside the Pinacoteca Manfrediniana next door to the Basilica della Salute.
• Punta della Dogana – an art museum hosting temporary exhibitions in the recently restored Sea Customs House.

5. Peggy Guggenheim Collection in the Sestiere of Dorsoduro in Venice, Italy

The  Peggy Guggenheim Collection  is a must-see in Venice if you have an interest in modern art and/or you are starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by all the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque masterpieces you have seen so far. The abstract world of the European and American art of the 20th century offers a rather stark contrast.

The Collection is housed in the 18th-century Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Dorsoduro shore of the Grand Canal. The larger-than-life figure of Peggy Guggenheim – an art patron and a woman who knew how to elevate life to an art form – permeates the many rooms. Her ashes are interred next to her beloved dogs in a corner of the palazzo’s garden.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection exhibits many masterpieces of modern art, has a sculpture garden, organises acclaimed events, and even holds a free art workshop for children every Sunday. Even if modern art is not your cup of tea, it is a wonderful and whimsical place to visit in Venice. Not least for the great views of the Grand Canal and The Angel of the City sculpture revelling in ecstasy at the best viewpoint.

To continue on this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers, walk the short distance from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection to the local traghetto stop. A traghetto is a black unadorned gondola with two oarsmen who for a small charge will row you across the Grand Canal. The traghetto line you need to catch in the vicinity of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is called Traghetto Santa Maria del Giglio . It will drop you off near the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio in the sestiere of San Marco. From here, the Doge’s Palace (point 6) and St. Mark’s Basilica (point 7) are a short walk away.

Tickets and Tours: Click to buy  fast track tickets for the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice. For added convenience, you can get a combined ticket for the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Doge’s Palace in Venice, too.

Official Website: Peggy Guggenheim Collection

More Art Nearby: For ideas on what else to see in terms of art and art history nearby, have a look at the ‘More Art Nearby’ subheading under point 4 in this blog post.

6. Doge’s Palace in the Sestiere of San Marco in Venice, Italy

The Doge’s Palace  in Venice commands the eye with its solid yet elegant proportions. Built of carefully interlaced white Istrian stone and red Verona marble, the centuries have weathered its facade to a beautiful salmon pink colour which is especially intense early in the morning. One of the pinnacles of the Venetian Gothic style, for centuries the Doge’s Palace was the beating heart of the Most Serene Republic of Venice. 

Nowadays, the Doge’s Palace is one of the most important sights in Venice. It has an unparalleled catalogue of art, an extensive collection of historic arms, and many rooms and halls decorated by some of the most famous artists of the Venetian School like Titian and Tintoretto. To fully immerse yourself in the art of Venice, a visit to the Doge’s Palace is a must.

Among many other things, here you can see the enormous canvas  Il Paradiso  painted by Tintoretto and his workshop. 22 m long and 7 m high, this is one of the largest oil paintings in the world. You can admire it in all its glory in the Chamber of the Great Council – one of the biggest rooms in Europe.

Tickets and Tours: Click to buy your  fast track ticket  for the Doge’s Palace in Venice in advance. If you are on a tight schedule and want to see as much as possible during your one day in Venice, then consider joining  a guided tour  with a skip-the-line entrance. Alternatively, pay a bit more for the convenience and enjoy  a guided tour  with a skip-the-line entrance for both the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

Official Website: Palazzo Ducale

More Art Nearby: There is a huge proliferation of art around the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica (see point 7 below) in Venice. Once you have visited them both, you may decide to abandon the rest of this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers and instead visit one or more of the following sights instead:

• Museo Correr – just across St. Mark’s Square from the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, you can visit this excellent museum tracing the art and history of Venice from many different historical points of view. The ticket for Museo Correr also includes entry to the National Archaeological Museum of Venice, the Monumental Rooms of the National Marciana Library, and fast track access to the Doge’s Palace.
• Church of San Zaccaria – this 15th-century church has an incredibly rich collection of art with masterpieces by Giovanni Bellini, Tintoretto, Anthony Van Dyck, and Giandomenico Tiepolo. It also has a crypt which, nowadays, is permanently flooded. It houses the tombs of eight of the earliest Venetian doges.
• Fondazione Querini Stampalia – this is a historic house museum with a beautiful art collection. I am especially fond of the paintings depicting scenes of Venetian life. Here you can also see how noble Venetian families used to live. Several rooms are outfitted with historic furniture, lavish Murano glass chandeliers, and frescoes dating to the 18th and the 19th centuries. The famous architect Carlo Scarpa also left his imprint on the place, particularly in the shape of a lovely small garden. Exploring Fondazione Querini Stampalia can be a great alternative to a visit to Ca’ Rezzonico (see point 3 above).
• Palazzo Grimani – a beautiful Venetian palace with stunning frescoes and stuccoes. It used to be the home of one of Venice’s noblest families who produced a doge and several high-ranking officials. The Grimanis were some of the first to invest in collecting classical statues and sculptures thus giving a push to the development of archaeology as a science.
• Scuola Grande di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni – don’t miss this sight in Venice if you have a particular interest in the Renaissance painter Vittore Carpaccio. His pictorial cycle created for this Venetian Scuola Grande is particularly famous.
• Church of San Lio – this small church with a very plain facade hides inside masterpieces by Titian, Palma Il Giovane, and Giandomenico Tiepolo. Above all, the famous Venetian artist Canaletto is laid to rest here.

Afterwards, if you don’t want to walk all the way back to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station, you can get a water bus or as they call it in Venice – vaporetto . Have a look at the timetable for vaporetto line 1 which will give you an idea of travel times and stops along the route. In this case, you will be able to see the beautiful facade of Ca’ d’Oro (see point 8 below) from the water as well as many other famous palaces and buildings along the shores of Venice’s Grand Canal. Click to buy  your Venice  vaporetto  tickets in advance. To check all the different vaporetto lines and timetables in Venice, have a look at this official website .

7. St. Mark’s Basilica in the Sestiere of San Marco in Venice, Italy

St. Mark’s Basilica  in Venice is one of the most splendid churches in Europe and the world. Lavishly decorated with precious marbles and complex scenes in mosaics, this is one of the most resplendent jewels in Venice’s architectural and artistic crown.

The basilica preserves many treasures. Inside it, you can lose track of time in admiration of its domes and walls covered with dizzyingly gold mosaics. The Pala d’Oro – the retable of the high altar – amazes with its meticulous craftsmanship and decoration of 1,927 gems.

The Triumphal Quadriga (also known as the Horses of St. Mark) is particularly famous. These are the four bronze horses dating back to Classical Antiquity which were brought to Venice in 1204 after the Sack of Constantinople. Nowadays, their copies adorn the basilica’s facade. The originals are kept inside. Also inside the basilica, don’t miss the St. Mark’s Museum. From illuminated manuscripts to silk tapestries, a visit to it will delight anyone with an interest in Christian art.

Tickets and Tours: There is a small charge to visit the basilica in addition to fees to see St. Mark’s Museum and the Pala d’Oro, and to access the outside terrace, the so-called  Loggia dei Cavalli . It’s worth it! The precious artefacts deserve a closer look and the views of Venice from the loggia are spell-binding. Click  here  to check the most up-to-date prices on the Basilica’s official website. If you want to commit to a specific time of visit, click to buy  a skip-the-line guided tour  of St. Mark’s Basilica. Alternatively, pay a bit more for the convenience and enjoy  a guided tour  with a skip-the-line entrance for both the St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in Venice.

Official Website: Basilica di San Marco

More Art Nearby: For ideas on what else to see in terms of art and art history nearby, have a look at the ‘More Art Nearby’ subheadings under points 6 and 8 in this blog post.

8. Ca’ d’Oro Galleria Giorgio Franchetti in the Sestiere of Cannaregio in Venice, Italy

Ca’ d’Oro  – the Golden House – is the most striking Late Gothic Palace in Venice. Facing the Grand Canal, it grabs the eye and charms the imagination with the intricate stone openwork of its balconies.

Nowadays, Ca’ d’Oro functions as an art gallery. Inside it, you can see the collection lovingly accumulated by Baron Giorgio Franchetti – the palace’s last private owner. Originals by  Andrea Mantegna , Vittore Carpaccio,  Titian , and Francesco Guardi as well as by the Flemish artists Jan Van Eyck and Anthony Van Dyck can be admired here. The gallery also has the now faded and cracked frescoes that were once painted by Titian for another of Venice’s most important buildings –  Fondaco dei Tedeschi .

For me, the most impressive thing to see in Ca’ d’Oro, however, is the flooring of the  portego  – the large covered space on the ground floor which connects the waterside portal with the landside entrance of the palace. The floor here is made of ancient marbles ordered in complex patterns. Its creation was a work of love for Giorgio Franchetti and it’s a truly wonderful thing to see and admire in Venice!

Once finished here, head back to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station. It’s a short walk away from Ca’ d’Oro. No doubt, your mind and your heart will be replete with emotions and unforgettable memories of this one day exploring the art of Venice and the Venetian heritage of art.

Tickets and Tours: Check  Ca’ D’Oro’s official website  for the most up-to-date information about ticket prices and opening hours. You can buy a ticket just for Ca’ d’Oro or a combined ticket for Ca’ d’Oro and another top art attraction in Venice –  Palazzo Grimani  – directly from the official website.

Official Website: Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ D’Oro

More Art Nearby: In terms of art and art history, there are many wonderful places to see within a short walking distance from Ca’ d’Oro in Venice. Have a look at the suggestions below and decide for yourself if you want to include them in your day in Venice or not. Alternatively, you may decide to actually skip Ca’ d’Oro in favour of one or more of them:

• Church of Madonna dell’Orto – with a plain yet elegant facade, this church in the sestiere of Cannaregio has a rich collection of art with originals by the great Renaissance painters Cima da Conegliano, Titian, Tintoretto, and Palma Il Giovane. Even more importantly, Tintoretto himself and his daughter Marietta Robusti – an artist in her own right – are buried here. The church also has the miraculous statue of the Madonna dell’Orto made by the local sculptor Giovanni de Santi in the 14th century. Nearby, you can also see from the outside the house in which Tintoretto used to live and work.
• Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli – a small but stunningly beautiful Renaissance church. Quite unusually, it was designed, built, and decorated by one artist – Pietro Lombardo – and his workshop. As such, it is incredibly cohesive in its style and architecture. This church is looked after by Chorus – an association working for the preservation of several historic churches in Venice. Entrance is paid for and you can purchase a Chorus pass in advance which will come in handy if you are planning to see the other Chorus churches mentioned in this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers.
• Scuola Grande di San Marco – a building with a stunningly beautiful facade, a rich collection of historic books on medicine and medical instruments as well as large pictorial cycles and artistic masterpieces . Several of the original paintings that in the past graced this place nowadays are in the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice and the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan .
• Basilica dei Santi Giovanni and Paolo – this is the largest church in Venice. It stands right next to the Scuola Grande di San Marco. It houses the final resting places of 25 Venetian Doges and it has a stunning collection of art. The two famous Renaissance painters Giovanni and Gentile Bellini are also buried here. The basilica has the largest Gothic polychrome stained-glass window in Venice.
• Equestrian Monument of Bartolomeo Colleoni – standing right in front of the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni and Paolo, this is the second full-size equestrian monument cast since the Antiquity. It was designed by Andrea del Verrocchio – most famous as the teacher of Leonardo da Vinci.  After Verrocchio’s death, it was cast by Alessandro Leopardi – a sculptor and architect from Venice. 

Bear in mind that you can also easily reach these sights on foot from the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. This way, if you decide to skip Ca’ d’Oro, you can still walk all the way from St. Mark’s Square back to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station while visiting many top Venice landmarks in terms of art and art history along the way.

Practical Tips to Explore Venice in One Day Tailored for Art Lovers

Here is a shortlist with first-hand tried and tested tips to make your one day in Venice as smooth and enjoyable as possible. As you can imagine, this Venice for art lovers itinerary includes a great deal of walking and standing on your feet from early morning until early evening. So, a bit of planning and organisation are needed for maximum comfort and to streamline your efforts as much as possible.

For a full list of essential tips for Venice have a look at this blog post . Otherwise, this shortlist will give you lots of points to consider before your arrival in the city of water.

Pick Carefully Your Shoes and Clothes – make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes and clothes for a long day of sightseeing and art appreciation. Practical and comfortable are the keywords here. Bear in mind that this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers includes (and suggests) visits to several churches. Even in the heat of summer, they require a certain dress code. So, make sure that shoulders and knees are covered both for men and women at all times.

Check Opening Times – check in advance the current opening times for all sights you will want to visit during your one day in Venice. These may change depending on the season, particular celebrations or any special and/or extraordinary events. I have provided the links to the official websites of the art galleries, churches, and museums included in this itinerary. Alternatively, you can check their respective Facebook pages for the most up-to-date news.

Pre-purchase Tickets – where possible, aim to purchase tickets in advance for the art galleries, churches, and museums you want to see. Not every sight in Venice offers this ability but the most well-known and the most visited ones do. Where possible, I have included links giving you a chance to purchase entry tickets and/or organised tours. They are very useful if you are planning to be at a particular sight at a particular time slot during the day and you want to avoid wasting time standing in line. This is especially valid during the high season.

Start as Early as Possible – there is lots of art to see in Venice, so the earliest you start, the more you will be able to see. At present, the first sight on the above art itinerary – the Scuola Grande di San Rocco – opens at 9.30 am. If you arrive in Venice around 8:50-9:00 am, you will have time to grab a quick brioche and a coffee for breakfast and then cover on foot the ten-minute distance from the train station to the Scuola Grande right as it opens its doors for the day.

Use a GPS app – Venice can be a bit of a shock to the system, especially for first-time visitors. The streets tend to be narrow and with unexpected curves, often ending on the edge of a canal. Make sure that you have a good look at the map before your visit so that you have a general idea as to where in the city of water the sights that you want to see are located. Ideally, use a GPS app or a Maps app on your phone during your visit, too. At the same time, be aware that sometimes such apps can get a bit confused in Venice and lead you in circles rather than straight to the place you want to see. Don’t panic! Keep an eye out for the signs in yellow and black pointing you in the direction of the most visited spots in Venice. These signs are usually painted or attached above eye level to the facades of the Venetian houses and buildings. Alternatively, stop for a coffee and/or a bite to eat at a small bar along the way and ask for directions.

Expect to Get Lost – getting lost is a given in Venice and a big part of the charm of the city of water. If it happens, don’t worry too much. Most probably, you are only a few minutes away from where you want to be anyway. On the other hand, you most probably will come across another wonderful sight to explore, too. For example, churches are dotted all over Venice and they are incredibly rich depositories of art and historic artefacts. And Venetian facades are simply wonderful to look at with their barbacani , patere , and finestrati (see what these are under the Architecture section in this blog post ). So, take your chance and see something that was not originally on your list but that you came across by yourself during your day in Venice.

Take It Easy – don’t force yourself to see it all and do it all in a day. Venice is 1,600 years old, so you can’t expect to cover it all and all its art from dawn till dusk. It is not a competition, anyway. It’s best to pick a couple of the large art galleries and museums on the list above and really focus on them. Then, you can spend the rest of the time popping in and out of wonderful historic churches and exploring their art. This way, you will have some strong points of reference rather than everything becoming one huge blur in your mind.

Improvise a Bit – I think the best tip that I can give you about exploring Venice in a day is not to be too strict in terms of expectations and plans. Venice is a place that keeps wonderful secrets and hidden gems around each and every corner. So, while having a general itinerary for the day is a wonderful thing, at the same time it does pay to improvise in situ a bit. In any case, you will end up seeing lots of wonderful art. Just don’t force it and if you miss a particular sight, don’t despair. There are many others right next to it.

Book a Guide – seeing Venice with the help of a highly qualified Venetian guide is an experience in itself. A guide knows all the shortcuts and will smoothly take you around Venice showing you just what you want to see. I always recommend Luisella Romeo from SeeVenice and Erika Cornali from WhenInVenice .

Spend More Time in Venice – if you can, either spend more time in Venice or return to the city of water as soon as you can. The above itinerary can be comfortably split between two, three or even four days. And yet, there will be many more art sights and places left to explore in Venice. So, if you have only a day at your disposal now, use it as best as you can with the help of this art itinerary and then plan a return visit to continue your explorations of Venetian art and art in Venice.

Maps of this One Day in Venice Itinerary for Art Lovers

These two maps show you the locations of the art galleries, museums, and churches mentioned in this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers. Use them to get a good initial idea of distances, walking directions, and the general layout of the city of water.

The first map includes just the main eight points of the itinerary. The second map includes both the main eight points and the numerous additional suggestions that appear under the ‘More Art Nearby’ subheadings above. This way you can decide if you want to stick to just the main itinerary or adjust it to your specific interests in art.

There is no right or wrong way. It all depends on you, what you want to see, and how much time you have and want to spend at each sight.

I made both maps in Google Maps, so you can zoom in and out, use Street View, and work with them just as with any other map in Google Maps.

1. Map of the Main Points of This One Day in Venice Itinerary for Art Lovers

2. Map of the Main Points and the Additional Sights of This One Day in Venice Itinerary for Art Lovers

In Conclusion

Venice is a wonderful city with a long history and rich accumulation of art. A visit to it can make the heart of any art lover aflutter with excitement at the thought of all the stunning works of art that are kept in the Venetian art galleries, churches, and museums.

From Byzantine-inspired mosaics and Gothic altarpieces to Renaissance masterpieces, Baroque frescoes, and even modern and contemporary art pieces there is so much to see in Venice if art is something that you love.

If you have always wanted to visit the city of water specifically for its art, this blog post gives you a one day in Venice itinerary specifically geared towards art lovers. It covers the major repositories of art here and it also includes several additional options so that you can adjust and expand your sightseeing plans in line with what interests you the most.

I have also included lots of first-hand tried and tested practical tips to make your art exploration of Venice as easy and smooth as possible, especially, if this is your first visit. Two handy maps provide you with the exact locations of each sight covered in-depth or briefly mentioned here, too.

I hope that you will make good use of this one day in Venice itinerary for art lovers. You can follow it as it is, expand on it, split it over several days or combine it with other interests that you may have.

Venice has a lot to offer and it inspires you in many different ways.

Enjoy the city of water and discover its art for yourself.

Now get ready quick for your trip to Venice in Italy!

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More Helpful Venice Info for You

Venice:   Major Landmarks , Essential Tips ,  Hidden Gems ,  Best Tours , Venetian Place Names , Nearest Airports ,  Venetian Carnival , Venetian Masks , Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Arco del Paradiso Day Trips from Venice: Venice to Padua , Venice to Verona , Venice to Milan , Venice to Lake Garda Day Trips to Venice: Verona to Venice , Milan to Venice , Bologna to Venice , Florence to Venice Venice Videos:   Grand Canal ,  St. Mark’s Square at Carnival ,  St. Mark’s Square ,  View from Rialto Bridge ,  View from Accademia Bridge ,  Venetian gondolas ,  Historical Regatta ,  Squero di San Trovaso ,  Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo ,  Fondazione Querini Stampalia ,  Palazzo Grimani ,  Rialto Fish Market ,  Ca’ Macana ,  Festa della Madonna della Salute

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Best of Italy:   Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Food ,  Italian Markets ,  Italian Coffee Culture , Types of Italian Coffees ,  Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods and Drinks Northern Italy:  18 Best Cities to Visit , Major Airports Lake Garda:   Best Towns ,  Nearest Airports ,  Travel Options ,  Lake Garda with Kids ,  Malcesine ,  Riva del Garda ,  Torri del Benaco , Milan to Lake Garda , Verona to Lake Garda Lake Como:   Things to See ,  Nesso Veneto:  Best Cities to Visit ,  30 Prettiest Small Towns , Top 15 Places ,  30 Adventures ,  15 Most Colourful Places , Most Beautiful Lakes Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   6 Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Verona:   Things to Do in One Day ,  Day Trips from Verona Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:   Things to Do ,  10 Must-See Museums ,  Day Trips from Vicenza

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Monday 4th of October 2021

I Love Venice as it is one of my favourite Cities that I have visited

Thursday 30th of September 2021

I Love Venice I have visited Venice twice. Once by myself and once with my mother and friends Went on the water bus long the Grand Canal, under the Rialto Bridge. and saw the major sights of Venice and walked along a side street at the Back of Piazza San Marco. Lovely City

Friday 1st of October 2021

Yes, it's a lovely place indeed. I am glad you had a wonderful time in Venice.

Best wishes,

I have found that the best way to see the San Marco Basilica is to go to mass. I am not a catholic but greatly enjoyed sitting among the congregation admiring my surroundings in peace, copying others over standing/sitting, and generally feeling part of it. No fee, no queue, no being hurried round and out again.

This sounds like an interesting experience. However, my worry as a visitor/tourist is always about supporting as best as I can the local sights. The fee to visit St. Mark's Basilica is not high and there is much history, architecture, and art to admire inside. Best wishes,

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Biennale Arte 2022

The 59th International Art Exhibition ran from 23 April to 27 November 2022 (pre-opening on 20, 21 and 22 April), curated by Cecilia Alemani. “As the first Italian woman to hold this position, I intend to give voice to artists to create unique projects that reflect their visions and our society”, Alemani has declared.

Cecilia Alemani is a curator who has organized many exhibitions of contemporary artists. She is currently Director and Chief Curator of High Line Art, the programme of public art of the urban park in New York, and is the past curator of the Italian Pavilion at the Biennale Arte 2017.

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+ 35% over the previous 2019 edition (pre-Covid) plus the 22,498 people who attended the preview.

Over 800,000 tickets sold.

Two conversations as part of the Meetings on Art are scheduled on Tuesday 4 and Thursday 6 October at the Teatro Piccolo Arsenale. Further events scheduled on 5 and 13 October.

From 27 September to 27 November the 59th International Art Exhibition is open to the public from 10 am to 6 pm.

From June 7th to June 11th at Teatro Piccolo Arsenale.

The 59th International Art Exhibition, curated by Cecilia Alemani, is open until Sunday 27 November 2022 at the Giardini and the Arsenale.

The prizes have been presented during the Awards Ceremony and Opening at Ca’ Giustinian, Venice.

An installation by the curators of the Ukrainian Pavilion Borys Filonenko, Lizaveta German, Maria Lanko. Realized in the context of the Biennale Arte 2022 with the collaboration of the Ukrainian Emergency Art Fund (UEAF) and the Victor Pinchuk Foundation.

The Jury, chaired by Adrienne Edwards, will award the official prizes. The Awards Ceremony will take place on Saturday 23 April at Ca’ Giustinian.

Introduction

“Today the starting point for the next Biennale Arte seems to be the reinvention of new and more sustainable relations between individuals and the universe we live in.”

“ The Milk of Dreams aspires to be an optimistic Exhibition, which celebrates art and its capacity to create alternative cosmologies and new conditions of existence.”

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The invited artists

The Exhibition takes place in the Central Pavilion (Giardini) and in the Arsenale, including 213 artists from 58 countries.

• Historical Capsules

Conceived like time capsules, these shows within the show provide additional tools of investigation and introspection, weaving a web of references and echoes that link artworks of the past – including major museum loans and unconventional selections – to the pieces by contemporary artists in the surrounding space.

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All the countries that will be showcased at the Biennale Arte 2022

The Exhibition will also include 80 National Participations in the historic Pavilions at the Giardini, at the Arsenale and in the city centre of Venice. 5 countries are participating for the first time at the Biennale Arte: Republic of Cameroon, Namibia, Nepal, Sultanate of Oman, and Uganda.

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Exhibitions and initiatives promoted by non-profit national and international bodies and institutions, that take place in various locations in Venice.

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Biennale Arte 2022 - The Milk of Dreams

Biennale Arte 2022 - Akosua Adoma Owusu

Biennale Arte 2022 - Singapore

Biennale Arte 2022 - Aki Sasamoto

Biennale Arte 2022 - Chile

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(13 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Rome, Florence & Assisi, Bologna & Ravenna, Venice & Padua, Milan

This ultimate private art tour of Italy features the best of Italy’s impossibly rich trove of art and architectural masterpieces. During in-depth touring with expert private guides, experience ancient sites, medieval villages, magnificent churches, outstanding frescoes and mosaics, renowned museums, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the best contemporary art and architecture in Italy. This tour can be fully customized to suit your interests, including private appointments at museums, gardens and private art collections.

Begin in Rome . Enjoy comprehensive private touring and experience the best of Roman culture, history and lifestyle. Discover ancient pagan and Christian monuments, the splendors of Baroque and Renaissance palaces and churches, and the surprising urban additions of the modern city. Highlights include the Roman and Imperial Forums, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican, Saint Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Via Veneto, the morning fruit and flower market of Campo dei Fiori, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, the Jewish Quarter, the ruins along the Appian Way, beautiful Aventine Hill, and the catacombs and "Underground Rome." Artisans of Leisure can also arrange special activities such as visits to other ruins and museums according to your interests, a private cooking class, tickets to evening cultural performances, tours of important churches, garden tours, wine tasting and more. During free time in Rome, enjoy la dolce vita and the city's excellent restaurants and boutiques. Also see compelling contemporary highlights such as MAXXI, designed by Zaha Hadid, the Parco della Musica by Renzo Piano, and Jubilee Church by Richard Meier, or visit local markets and design shops.

Next, transfer to Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. En route, stop in  Assisi  to tour the Basilica di San Francesco and see its extraordinary frescoes. During private touring in Florence , enjoy skip-the-line access at world-renowned museums such as the Uffizi and Accademia, see renowned sites such as the Duomo and Basilica of Santa Croce, browse antiques and artisan workshops of the Oltrarno district, visit a Dominican monastery where monk cells are decorated with frescoes by early Renaissance master Fra Angelico, and tour less-frequented but fascinating museums such as the Museo del Bargello, a prison in the 13th century and now home to sculpture by Michelangelo and Donatello. Perhaps also learn about Tuscan cuisine at specialty food shops and the Mercato Centrale or stroll through the beautiful Boboli Gardens. During free time, enjoy leisurely meals, walks along the Arno River and shopping for Florentine gold jewelry, handmade paper, leather goods, antiques and housewares.

Continue to Bologna , one of Italy’s great gastronomic centers. Tour the city’s cultural and culinary highlights, such as grand churches, interesting museums, frescoed porticoes, outdoor markets and specialty food shops. One day, enjoy a private excursion to nearby Ravenna to see dazzling Byzantine-era mosaics.

Next, transfer to Venice. En route, stop in  Padua  to see the magnificent frescoes in the Scrovegni (Arena) Chapel. During flexible private touring in spectacular  Venice , see highlights such as the Accademia Gallery, art-filled churches, noble palaces gracing the Grand Canal, Palladian architecture, and modern and contemporary highlights such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the Palazzo Grassi, the Punta della Dogana and the Giardini, one of the main venues for the Venice Biennale. Also visit favorite local neighborhoods, architectural landmarks, outdoor markets and specialty shops as desired. During leisure time, you might like to indulge in eclectic Venetian cuisine, discover hidden neighborhoods, shop for high-quality local glass and sample local culinary treats at Venetian  bacari  (wine bars).

End your tour in Milan , a city of fashion, finance and great cultural treasures. During private city touring, see the beautiful Duomo, an impressive Gothic cathedral and city landmark. Browse upscale boutiques under the glass ceilings of the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. Peruse Italian art masterpieces in the Pinacoteca di Brera museum and see exhibitions of contemporary art at the Fondazione Prada. Perhaps have a meal at one of the many restaurants in the charming Navigli canal district. Artisans of Leisure will arrange tickets to see Leonardo da Vinci’s  The Last Supper.  

This tour can be extended to include more of Italy’s premier art and architecture destinations.

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Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

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We had experiences and opportunities throughout Italy that we never would have had if we were traveling independently. Our trip was spectacular. Thank you for your excellent planning and insight, and for selecting such lovely, memorable rooms in each hotel. ~ S.G., New York, NY

Thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip to Italy for our family! The knowledgeable guides saved us from standing in lines and expertly maneuvered us through the cities and museums.   ~ P.R., Laguna Niguel, CA

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Venice Revealed

The 20 Best Museums in Venice for Art, History, and Culture

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Venice, a city renowned for its winding canals and historic charm, is also a treasure trove of art and culture.

Nestled among its charming canals and winding streets are some of the world’s most illustrious museums, each telling a unique story of the city’s rich past and vibrant present.

Whether you’re an art lover or a curious traveler, Venice promises a journey through time, showcasing many world-famous masterpieces. This guide will take you on a tour of the best museums in Venice, offering a glimpse into the heart of this enchanting city.

So, let’s embark on this cultural adventure and discover the gems that Venice has to offer. Don’t forget that Venice offers a lot of helpful passes to save you time and money. Check out some skip-the-line passes for Venice museums here !

The Grandeur of the Grand Canal

Venice’s Grand Canal is not just a waterway; it’s the pulsating heart of the city. Meandering through Venice , this majestic canal is lined with historic palazzos and vibrant scenes of daily life. As gondolas glide and vaporettos cruise, the Canale Grande offers a picturesque backdrop that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. But beyond its scenic beauty, the canal is also home to some of Venice’s most esteemed museums.

Ca’ Pesaro

Situated right on the Grand Canal in the Santa Croce district, Ca’ Pesaro is a testament to Venice’s deep-rooted love for art. This grand baroque palace formerly belonging to the Pesaro family houses the International Gallery of Modern Art, where visitors can marvel at works from notable artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Its facade, reflecting on the shimmering waters of the canal, is a sight to behold.

Palazzo Grassi

Another jewel along the Grand Canal is the modern art museum, the Palazzo Grassi. This imposing structure is focused on contemporary art in Venice. With its ever-changing exhibitions, Palazzo Grassi invites art enthusiasts to delve into modern masterpieces, all while enjoying the serene ambiance of the canal.

The museum will feature a single living artist that is worthy of praise. Usually, Italian artists are featured and the art type can vary from graphic art to sculpture.

Modern and Contemporary Art in Venice

Venice, a city steeped in history, is also a vibrant hub for modern and contemporary art. As you wander its narrow alleys and expansive piazzas, you’ll find a dynamic blend of the old and the new, with art galleries and exhibitions showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the art world.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

One of the crown jewels of Venice’s modern art scene is the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Located in a palazzo on the Grand Canal, this modern art museum is home to an impressive array of modern masterpieces. From Cubism to abstract expressionism, the collection spans various movements and features works by iconic artists like Picasso, Kandinsky, and Pollock. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of 20th-century art and is considered one of the best museums in Venice and even Italy in general.

Pinault Collection & Punta della Dogana

Another significant contributor to Venice’s contemporary art landscape is the Pinault Collection, housed in two museums and locations: Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana. When you visit Punta della Dogana, you’ll find a different art event each time since it is not a museum dedicated to one particular artist or type of art. These venues regularly host exhibitions of contemporary art, bringing in works from internationally acclaimed artists and offering fresh perspectives on the ever-evolving art scene.

Palazzo Fortuny

The Fortuny Museum is a place where art, history, and innovation converge. The former residence and atelier of the multifaceted artist Mariano Fortuny, this Gothic palazzo on the Grand Canal now stands as a tribute to his diverse talents and contributions to the worlds of textiles, lighting, and stage design. The museum retains the atmosphere of Fortuny’s workshop, with its walls adorned with his iconic fabrics, paintings, and inventions, offering a glimpse into the artist’s creative process.

Beyond celebrating Fortuny’s legacy, the museum also plays host to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, photography, and design. These exhibitions, set against the backdrop of Fortuny’s creations, create a dialogue between past and present, showcasing the enduring influence of his work.

Historical and Natural Museums

Venice, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, offers a plethora of museums that take visitors on a journey through time. From natural wonders to maritime heritage and royal residences, there’s a story waiting to be discovered around every corner.

Natural History Museum

At the heart of Venice lies the Natural History Museum, a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and showcasing the wonders of the natural world. Here, visitors can explore a diverse range of exhibits, from prehistoric fossils to exotic specimens from far-off lands. A highlight of the museum is its collection of whale skeletons including a massive finback whale specimen washed ashore in S. Giovanni a Teduccio, Naples.

Museo Storico Navale

For those with a passion for maritime history, the Museo Storico Navale or Naval History Museum is a must-visit. This museum celebrates Venice’s storied naval past, showcasing a vast collection of historic ships, models, and maritime artifacts. As you wander through its halls, you’ll be transported back in time, reliving the days when Venice was a dominant maritime power.

Museo Correr

Located in the iconic Piazza San Marco, or Saint Mark’s Square, Museo Correr stands as a beacon of Venetian history and culture. Housed in a grand palazzo, the museum offers a deep dive into the life and times of the Venetian Republic. From art collections to historical artifacts, Museo Correr provides a comprehensive look at Venice’s glorious past.

One of the highlights of the Correr Museum is the Royal Palace. It offers a look into a lesser known period of Venetian history when the Habsubrgs occupied Venice after it’s surrender to Napolean in the late 18th century. The Royal Palace comprises twenty living quarters that were once the private apartments and traditional reception rooms of these dynasties. These rooms have been meticulously restored to their former glory, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the opulence of 19th-century Venice.

Lenoardo da Vinci Museum

The Leonardo da Vinci Museum offers a unique exploration into the mind of one of history’s greatest polymaths. Dedicated to showcasing the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, this museum provides a comprehensive look at his diverse talents, from art and anatomy to engineering and flight.

Visitors are invited to interact with models of Leonardo’s inventions, bringing to life his revolutionary ideas and designs. From intricate flying machines to innovative hydraulic systems, each exhibit shows Leonardo’s unparalleled vision and creativity. The museum also delves into his artistic endeavors, offering insights into his techniques and studies that laid the groundwork for some of the world’s best museums most iconic artworks.

Archeological Museum of Venice

Situated adjacent to the iconic Piazza San Marco, the Archaeological Museum of Venice offers a captivating journey through time. Established in the 16th century, this museum boasts an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, ranging from Greek and Roman sculptures to Egyptian antiquities. Each piece tells a story of the civilizations that once thrived, their beliefs, artistry, and the intricate connections they shared with Venice.

As visitors wander through its halls, they encounter classical masterpieces, including statues, bronzes, and ceramics, each echoing the artistic prowess of bygone eras. The Egyptian section, with its mummies, steles, and amulets, provides a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and daily life of ancient Egypt.

Art Galleries and Notable Collections

Venice, often hailed as an open-air museum, is also home to a myriad of art galleries that house some of the world’s most coveted artworks. These galleries, scattered throughout the city, offer art aficionados a chance to delve deep into the artistic heritage of Venice, spanning centuries and various art movements.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Set within a series of buildings that previously functioned as an academy, the Accademia art gallery is home to an outstanding collection of Venetian art and is one of the most important museums in Venice. Spanning from the Byzantine and Gothic periods to the grandeur of the Renaissance and Baroque eras, the Galleria provides a deep dive into the artistic milestones of the centuries.

Within its walls, visitors can admire works by renowned Venetian artists, including Titian, Bellini, Canaletto, and Veronese. Each gallery unfolds a narrative, highlighting pivotal moments of artistic brilliance and the distinct flair of Venetian artistry.

In addition to its vast array of paintings, the museum displays an array of sculptures, drawings, and prints, offering a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of art in Venice. It’s the ideal way to see the way Venice looked back in the day of the Doge’s and courtesans.

Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro

One of the city’s most renowned art galleries is the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro. Housed in a stunning Gothic palace overlooking the Grand Canal, this gallery boasts a collection of some of the most famous paintings from the Renaissance period and beyond. Each artwork tells a story, capturing moments in time and offering insights into the artistic genius of eras gone by.

Museo del Vetro

Another gem in Venice’s artistic crown is the Museo del Vetro, or the Venice Glass Museum. Located on the island of Murano , this museum pays homage to the centuries-old glassmaking tradition of Venice. As visitors explore its exhibits, they’ll discover the intricate artistry and craftsmanship that made the Venetian Republic a global hub for glass production. From delicate glassware to ornate chandeliers, the Murano glass museum showcases the brilliance and innovation of Venetian glassmakers.

Burano Lace Museum

Venturing to the colorful island of Burano, visitors will find the Burano Lace Museum, a tribute to the delicate and intricate art of lace-making. This Burano lace school turned museum celebrates the island’s long-standing lace-making tradition, showcasing exquisite pieces that highlight the skill and dedication of Burano’s artisans. A visit here offers a deep dive into a craft that has been passed down through generations, making it an essential stop for those keen to understand Venice’s diverse artistic heritage.

Cultural and Community Museums

Venice is not just a city of art and history; it’s also a melting pot of cultures and communities. Throughout its winding canals and narrow streets, there are museums that celebrate the diverse tapestry of its inhabitants and their contributions to the city’s rich cultural fabric.

Jewish Museum

At the heart of the Venetian Ghetto lies the Jewish Museum, a testament to the city’s vibrant Jewish community. This museum offers a poignant journey through the history, traditions, and contributions of the Jewish people in Venice. Through its exhibits, visitors can gain insights into the community’s challenges, achievements, and enduring legacy in the city.

Museo della Musica

For those with a passion for melodies and harmonies, the Museo della Musica is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Venice, this museum celebrates the city’s musical heritage. It houses a remarkable collection of musical instruments, from ancient lutes to violins, each telling a story of Venice’s musical evolution. The beautiful museum also offers a symphony of sights and sounds, making it a haven for music lovers.

La Biennale

No discussion of Venice’s cultural scene would be complete without mentioning La Biennale. This world-renowned art event transforms the city into a global stage for contemporary art every two years. Artists, curators, and art enthusiasts from around the world converge in Venice to showcase, discuss, and celebrate the latest trends and innovations in the art world.

Palaces and Historic Buildings

Venice, with its shimmering canals and iconic gondolas, is also a city of grand palaces top museums, and historic edifices. These architectural marvels stand as silent witnesses to the city’s glorious past, each with its own tale of power, intrigue, and opulence.

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

One of the most iconic landmarks of Venice, the Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. For centuries, it served as the residence of the Doge, the supreme authority of the Venetian Republic. As you wander through its grand halls and chambers, you’re transported back to an era of political power and grandeur. The intricate facades, grand staircases, and ornate chambers of the Doge’s Palace offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Venice’s ruling elite.

Ca’ Rezzonico

Venturing further into the city, one comes across Ca’ Rezzonico, a grand palazzo that offers a window into the 18th century. This baroque palace, with its stunning frescoes and lavish interiors, provides a vivid portrayal of Venetian life during the 1700s. From grand ballrooms to intimate chambers, Ca’ Rezzonico captures the essence of an era marked by art, culture, and refinement.

Palazzo Mocenigo

A visit to this museum offers a deep dive into the daily life and customs of historic Venice. Its vast collection showcases the elegance of Venetian garments, highlighting the city’s role as a hub of style. Beyond fashion, Palazzo Mocenigo also celebrates the art of perfume-making, capturing the aromatic essence of the Venetian Republic.

Wrapping it Up

Venice is a beautiful city with lots to see. But sometimes, it can get crowded. A great way to enjoy Venice and avoid big crowds is by visiting its museums. They’re not just quiet places; they’re also full of amazing art and history. So, if you want to learn more and make your Venice trip even better, check out more articles from our list below. They’ll give you lots of tips and ideas!

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Italy's art cities: Venice, Florence & Rome

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Tour highlights

Uncover Venice's hidden past by visiting secret chambers within the Doge's Palace.

Discover the secrets of Ancient Rome on a private tour of the Colosseum.

Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel with a private guide.

Experience Baroque art through Caravaggio's most famous works in the Borghese Gallery and Santa Maria del Popolo Church.

Travel Venice's Grand Canal in style by arriving at your hotel via a private boat.

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Itinerary idea in detail

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Your guide will meet you on arrival for a private boat transfer to your hotel. The journey will take 30 to 45 minutes, passing through the lagoon and along the famous Grand Canal. The rest of the day is free to settle into your hotel in the heart of the city and just steps from St Mark's Square.

Today, you will have a private guided tour of St Mark's Basilica and the 15th-century Doge's Palace. You'll be able to go behind the scenes, uncover the hidden chambers where the Doge administered the republic, and visit the Bridge of Sighs.

Departing by private water taxi, you'll head to the train station for your journey to Florence. You will have premium-class tickets for this two-hour journey. Upon arrival in Florence, a private driver will escort you to your hotel. In the afternoon, you may want to take some time to explore the stunning Piazza del Duomo, home to Florence's iconic Renaissance cathedral. If you are feeling energetic, you can climb both the bell tower and the dome for wonderful views of the city.

This morning, you have a three-hour private guided walking tour around Florence. You will visit the beautiful Santa Croce Basilica and the Accademia to see Michelangelo's iconic 'David'. The afternoon is free to continue exploring at your leisure. You may want to take a lunchtime stroll along the banks of the Arno or while away the afternoon in the fascinating Bargello Gallery.

Today, you have a full day at leisure to relax or explore more of this fascinating city at your own pace. In the morning, you may want to cross the Arno and visit the Pitti Palace and stunning Boboli Gardens. In the afternoon, you can explore the ornate Medici Chapels, home to some beautiful Renaissance treasures.

Your driver will take you to the train station in Florence for your premium class train journey to Rome, which will take around two hours. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you'll have the opportunity to get your bearings in Rome with a privately guided tour of the city by car and on foot. This evening tour includes key sites such as the Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain.

Step back in time to 80 AD when the building of Rome's most famous landmark, the Colosseum, was constructed. Skip past the lines and enjoy direct entry into the landmark, where your private guide will explain the significance of the Colosseum during the Roman era. The Roman Forum, the heart of Roman public life, is just next door, so you'll visit this vast site with your guide afterwards. This afternoon is unguided, but to stick with the Ancient Rome theme, we recommend heading to Capitoline Hill and Trajan's Column, which are both easily accessible from the Forum.

This morning, you have a privately guided tour of the Vatican, including St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and, of course, the Sistine Chapel with its beautiful ceiling by Michelangelo. As you may expect, this will be one of the busiest sites you visit on your trip, so afterwards, you will have a well-deserved afternoon break to relax.

Today visit the beautiful masterpieces housed within the Borghese Gallery with your private guide. After the museum, your guide will take you to the Santa Maria del Popolo Church, home to some incredible works by Caravaggio and Bernini, before ending your tour at the Spanish Steps. Spend your final afternoon at leisure, soaking up the wonderful atmosphere of Rome.

Today you will be transferred by private driver to the airport for your flight home.

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Palace Bonvecchiati

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Ca Maria Adele

Centurion Palace

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Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1

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VOI Donna Camilla Savelli

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Rose Garden Palace Roma

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Venice Biennale 2024: the must-see pavilions in the Arsenale

Artists draw with their eyes and play with zeus at the city's former shipyards and armories.

Massimo Bartolini, Due qui (2024) Image: courtesy the artist, Massimo De Carlo, Frith Street Gallery and Magazzino. Photo © Agostino Osio / AltoPiano

Massimo Bartolini

Italy has the biggest pavilion in the Arsenale but how do you make the most of it? This year Massimo Bartolini fills up the over-generous space with sound—well, sound and lots of scaffolding.

The scaffolding forms an industrial version of a garden maze. At its centre, the water in the pool is agitated by a wave, the heartbeat of an organic blob. Handmade rectangular organ pipes, laid on their sides like coffins, play a new piece of music (by Caterina Barbieri and Kali Malone), which evokes both the peace and the terror of religious music. In the garden outside, a haunting piece by the British composer Gavin Bryars emanates from hidden speakers.

There isn’t much to see in the Italian pavilion—but after a synapse-dazzling day in the Arsenale, this comes as a relief. This is a rare space in the Biennale for rest, contemplation and introspection.

I Will Follow the Ship , Matthew Attard

Matthew Attard's Stone wall study in his show I Will Follow The Ship © Matthew Attard and Galleria Michela Rizzo

There is a dearth of digital art at this year's Venice Biennale, so Malta's pavilion offers a refreshing segue into the world of technology. Using eye trackers, the artist Matthew Attard retraced ship graffiti that was etched over centuries onto the walls of wayside chapels across Malta. The moving results, projected onto a replica stone surface in the pavilion, draw a line between these historical drawings imbued with religious belief and our blind faith in technology.

A Dance with her Myth , Mounira Al Solh

Mounira Al Solh's A Dance with her Myth (2023) Image: courtesy of the artist; Galerie Sfeir-Semler Beyrouth/ Hamburg © LVAA

Overturning dominant Western narratives is a major theme at this year's Biennale—and Mounira Al Solh does just that in her presentation for the Lebanese pavilion. Al Solh's reinterpretation of the ancient Greek myth of Europa being abducted by Zeus in the form of a bull, seeks less to admonish and preach, but rather to redress the gender imbalance of this story through humour and playfulness. The brightly coloured collages, drawings and films even include a depiction of Europa tossing Zeus's head around like a football. The show is green too: the boat at the centre of the show is made from reclaimed wood rather than Lebanese cedar—traditionally used by Phoenician shipbuilders—which is under threat from climate change.

Bokk—Bounds , Alioune Diagne

Alioune Diagnes's Bokk—Bounds © The Art Newspaper

Hazy images of joy and despair make up Senegal’s showstopper of a Biennale debut. A monumental jigsaw of a wall work, formed out of 17 different panels, presents a variety of contrasting scenes: migrants travelling across the Mediterranean, orange lifejackets wrapped around their bodies; a person curled up on a street; teenagers laughing together. Get up close and it becomes clear that these shapes are formed out of minute, gorgeous calligraphic marks, perhaps inspired by the artist’s grandfather, who was a Koranic master. A real-life canoe lies in front of the wall work, broken in half. Rarely has an installation spoken so effectively to the power of connection and the dangers of drifting apart.

That's A Very Large Number—A Commerzbau , Hildigunnur Birgisdóttir

Hildigunnur Birgisdottir's That's A Very Large Number—A Commerzbau Photo: © Ugo Carmeni

In Hildigunnur Birgisdóttir’s installation visitors might not even realise they are in the Icelandic pavilion. The introductory wall label is folded into an artwork to look like packaging. It is made from a piece of flooring recycled from last year’s Architecture Biennale and features the pavilion’s floorplan alongside a sea of branding.

Usually, only two or three sponsors get such a coveted spot, but Birgisdóttir’s has listed the logos of every company that made the project possible, including delivery services (Fedex, UPS), airlines (Easyjet, Icelandair), computer software (Trello, Adobe, Google), stationary (Scotch, Post-It), communication apps (Zoom, Microsoft Teams), the PR company (Sutton), even the snacks she ate (Twix) and cigarettes she smokes (Camel).

The pavilion is full of subtleties: the space is painted in the off-white colour of old electrical sockets, objects buzz like mobile phones, the table and chairs are covered in the hire company’s logo and visitors are given a peek of 7% of a digital advertising billboard in Reykjavik. If nothing else, the pavilion is worth a visit for the free—branded—wet wipes, that will be restocked each day to keep you fresh throughout the Biennale.

A Comparative Dialogue Act, Andrea Mancini and Every Island

Biting (2024) by Selin Davasse invited by Andrea Mancini and Every Island for A Comparative Dialogue Act © The Art Newspaper

The performances that take place on the hour during the run of the Luxembourg pavilion (between 12-6pm) have been rehearsed exclusively in the Arsenale space. Four performers have been invited by the collective Every Island and the sound designer Andrea Mancini to take up weeks-long residencies in the space in which they devise and practice their performances in public before staging them in the same space.

The venue itself is both eye-catching and leg-trembling. Metal floor tiles etched with the exhibition notes are placed atop large speakers that gently vibrate the surface; tremors are also emitted from an installation of microphones and functional glass sound transmitters atop wheeled devices.

The freewheeling, generous spirit of the show is reminiscent of the artist collective-dominated Documenta 15, whose unorthodox approach to exhibition participation might have caused many logistical headaches, but whose legacy will likely endure for years to come.